A New Heritage

Today’s Through the Bible Reading: Ezekiel 17:1 – 20:29

“…you will no longer quote this proverb in Israel…” Ezekiel 18:2 NIV

Today’s reading contains a very challenging concept. You see, there was an old saying in Israel that went something like this: “Don’t blame me. I’m like this because of my parents!” Actually, the exact phrase was: “The fathers have eaten sour grapes, And the children's teeth are set on edge” (Ezek. 18:2). But God said, “don’t say that!”

"What do you mean when you use this proverb…As I live, says the Lord GOD, you shall no longer use this proverb in Israel. Behold, all souls are Mine; The soul of the father As well as the soul of the son is Mine… The son shall not bear the guilt of the father, nor the father bear the guilt of the son. The righteousness of the righteous shall be upon himself, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon himself.” Ezekiel 18:2-5, 20 NKJV

You see, here’s the thing – everyone understands that we are indeed affected by our environments, but living a life blaming other people for our difficulties (especially our parents (Ex. 20:12)), sidesteps the Biblical teaching of personal responsibility. Everyone experiences challenges. Everyone experiences troubles. Everyone experiences hardships. They are all a part of living in a fallen, sinful world. Jesus told us as much when He said, “Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” (Matt. 6:34).

Jesus came to offer new life to individuals and it is every individuals’ choice whether they will believe and receive and walk in that new life or not. Our environment can indeed shape our personalities, but the message God is giving to us today is that He offers new life to every man, woman, and child; and every man, woman, and child is responsible for choosing whether they will walk in it. Our righteousness – or lack thereof – is measured not by our parents, our upbringing, our social status, or any other part of our environment. Rather, it is based solely, completely, and totally on our acceptance of the gift of redemption and salvation offered to us by Jesus Christ.

“…Therefore turn and live!" Ezekiel 18:32 NKJV

by Sharon Kaselonis / All rights reserved ©